The basketball community is mourning the loss of Alvin "Al" Attles, a towering figure in the sport and the Bay Area, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. His contributions to the game and his decades-long association with the Golden State Warriors have left an indelible mark, not only as a player but also as a coach, general manager, and later in various executive roles.
A Storied Career
Al Attles' basketball journey began when he was drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors. Standing 6-foot-0, Attles played as a guard, quickly establishing himself as a key player for the team. Over 11 seasons with the Warriors, he played 711 games and averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.
One of the most memorable moments of his playing career came on March 2, 1962, when he scored 11 points in the historic game where his teammate Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks. Attles' presence on the court was integral, not just for his scoring but for his leadership and defensive prowess.
Breaking Barriers as a Coach
In 1970, Attles broke new ground by becoming one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. His leadership and strategic acumen were soon evident as he guided the Warriors to their first NBA championship in 1975, achieving a remarkable four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. This victory solidified his status as a pioneering coach who could inspire and lead his team to the pinnacle of success.
After his coaching career, Attles continued to serve the Warriors in various capacities, including as general manager for three seasons. His dedication to the organization was unwavering, making significant contributions in roles such as vice president and consultant. His commitment to the Warriors was honored by the franchise retiring his No. 16 jersey, a testament to his enduring legacy.
Recognition and Legacy
Al Attles' contributions to basketball were recognized at the highest levels. In 2014, he was honored with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, a prestigious accolade presented by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. This was followed by his enshrinement into the Hall of Fame with the Class of 2019, a fitting tribute to his impact on the sport.
The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community have expressed profound sorrow at his passing. The Warriors released a heartfelt statement: "Alvin leaves behind a profound legacy within the game of basketball and the Bay Area community, but especially as a family man and humanitarian. We mourn his loss alongside his wife, Wilhelmina, son Alvin, and all who knew and loved him."
A Lasting Influence
Warriors coach Steve Kerr echoed these sentiments, highlighting Attles' significance to the franchise: "Most of the great organizations with a lot of history have one player who everybody associates with that franchise. Al Attles is that guy for us. He's the face of our franchise for many generations of Warriors fans. We're lucky to have him."
Al Attles' life and career are a testament to his exceptional talent, leadership, and dedication to the game of basketball. His influence extends beyond the court, impacting countless individuals and leaving a lasting legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.